Chan Eng Heng - Achievements and Recognition

Achievements and Recognition

Chan is recognised for initiating the first Malaysian in-situ egg protection program for marine turtles in the Chagar Hutang Turtle Sanctuary in Redang Island. Since its inception in 1993, the project has developed into a long-term nesting and tagging research program that incorporates a highly successful volunteer program.

In 2004, she extended her work to cover the critically endangered river terrapins of Terengganu. This work is now carried out as community-based projects in the Setiu and Kemaman Rivers under the Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia.

Her contributions in marine turtle conservation were recognized by the United Nations Environment Programme when she was conferred the UNEP Global 500 Roll of Honour in 2001. She was listed in the UNEP’s Who’s Who of Women and the Environment in 2006. In Malaysia, she was conferred the title Pingat Jasa Kebaktian (PJK) by the late Sultan of Terengganu in 1991 in recognition of her contributions in the state. She has also received several research awards in the university.

Chan has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings, magazines and newsletters. She has also authored several books, including a book for children entitled "Little Turtle Messenger".

Many of her works have been applied directly in the conservation of turtles in Malaysia, either to enhance existing efforts, or to develop new approaches in protecting turtles. Her publications were cited extensively in the report of the WTO (World Trade Organization) Panel on the United States – Import Prohibition of Certain Shrimp and Shrimp Products, WT/DS58/R, 15 May 1998.

Chan’s work on sea turtles has been featured in both local and foreign TV programmes, such as “Beyond 2000″, Fox Family Channel’s “World Gone Wild”, NHK’s “Meeting a New Asia”, Momentum II’s “Our Scientists and Inventors” and TV3′s “Majalah 3″ and “Malaysia Hari Ini”.

Chan is also known for endearing turtle conservation to the hearts of the common public by her innovative “Save our Turtles Outreach Program ” (popularly called STOP) carried out under SEATRU in Universiti Malaysia Terengganu. STOP involves the public directly in turtle conservation efforts through nest and turtle adoption schemes and a volunteer program. STOP has been highly publicized, as attested in the 30-odd media articles on the program.